![Colin McRaven ('24) prepares to pitch the ball to an Anclote batter during the Varsity pre-season game."I like striking people out, since it's fun. The game against Anclote was pretty easy because they were less talented than our team and [I think] we were better than them in every aspect," Colin McRaven ('24) said.](https://jwmhshoofbeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/IMG_1538-1200x928.jpg)
![Meryam Ghobrial’s (’27) Spotify Wrapped provided "genre" for the month of April. “Some other people got the same [AI generated] genre name for different artists of the same genre” Ghobrial said. Photo provided by Meryam Ghobrial.](https://jwmhshoofbeat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/unnamed-555x1200.png)
With the football season in gear, many players, both returning and new, are preparing mentally and physically for the challenges they may face. Players work hard by showing up to challenging practices while also strengthening bonds with their coaches and fellow athletes.
Victor Garcia (’25) describes his personal goals to keep himself in shape, and a memorable experience he’s had throughout the season.
“I really want to go undefeated and also go to states, since I feel like the team has more skill and we have more chances of winning. I try to stay locked in, in and out of school to keep myself in a more prepared mindset and focus on myself. When we played North East [high school] and Bishop got the pick I felt like that was a game winning pick and that was really memorable to me. During the summer it was really difficult to train and you can’t really get around it other than facing it head on.” Garcia said.
Cayden Thomas (’26) shares the goals he’s set for himself this season and the confidence he has in his team in winning.
“I want to go undefeated and hopefully go to district championships, [and] I feel like we have more experience compared to last year since we were a younger team last year, but we got more experience. I’m really looking forward to making a bond with the kids on the team and having fun with everyone. To get myself prepared, physically I just take care of my body and recover from injuries, and mentally I just watch over film and take notes on the team we’re playing.” Thomas said.
Cody Connor (’27) shares memories he’s had bonding with the team after winning games and the rigorous physical and mental training he’s undergone.
“Some memories I have bonding with the team is that I remember the coach would break dance in the locker room after we’d win a game which I find funny and memorable. Practices were hard since there’s really no other way to avoid it so you have to take it head on and keep a good mindset about it.” Connor said.
Football creates a loud, supportive, and energetic environment that is fit everyone.When the season comes to an end, the players, coaches and fans will have created lasting memories of this year’s football season.
